So you got a letter in the mail… you’ve been summoned. But what in the world are you supposed to wear for jury duty? I recently got summoned for jury duty for the first time and I too was wondering the same thing. If you’re a woman wondering what to wear to jury duty, based on my own jury duty experience, I’m happy to help guide you.
Jury service is one of the most important civic duties you can perform in this country. For me, as a naturalized American citizen (I wasn’t born in America), this is especially significant. And so I really the opportunity to serve as a juror as an honor and a privilege.
When I was summoned to serve jury duty, it was very important for me to be on my p’s and q’s. I really wanted to show up putting my best foot forward. And as a fashion and style aficionado, that meant making sure that I was dressed appropriately for the courthouse. At the same time, I wanted to be stylish and well put together.
Is there a dress code for jury duty?
Yes, there is a dress code for jury duty. On the summons you receive from your local clerk of courts, you may find an indication of this.
On my summons, for example, it read… “Maintaining the dignity of the court with proper attire is required. Shorts and flip-flops are not acceptable. Additionally, courtrooms tend to be cool and you may wish to bring a sweater or light jacket for your comfort.”
Do you have to dress up for jury duty?
While you don’t have to “dress up” for jury duty, it was apparent when I arrived at the courthouse to serve my own jury duty that some people did not care to do so at all. I was honestly taken aback by how inappropriately many men and women alike were dressed.
I saw the gambit — shorts, graphic t-shirts, even flip flops. I mean aside from the fact that it clearly says on the summons not to wear flip flops, why in the world you would show up to a courthouse in beach attire is beyond me — totally inappropriate for jury duty attire for men or women.
If you’re reading this, please, don’t be that girl.
What is the dress code for jury duty?
There is no official dress code for jury duty. While you are not required to dress in business attire when reporting for jury duty, the Court does recommend it.
As a general guide, you should show respect for the court system and try your best to dress respectfully and conservatively. We want everyone in the courtroom to be focused on the facts, and not on your jury duty attire.
For women attending court to serve jury duty, I would recommend wearing attire that covers their cleavage and shoulders. This would exclude halter tops, tank tops, tube tops, spaghetti straps, strapless, or backless dresses.
If you wear a skirt or dress, I recommend a length that covers your sexy knees or hits just above. And if you decide to wear pants, as cute as your butt may be, your pants should not be skin tight as to intentionally show off your bum.
I would also recommend you wear comfortable and sensible shoes – low heels, kitten heels, boots, or ballet-type flats. Flip-flops (and sneakers in my opinion) are inappropriate.
Can you wear jeans to Jury Duty?
Yes, you can wear jeans for jury duty — I however do not recommend it. I don’t recommend you wear jeans for jury duty for the same reason I don’t think you should wear your pajamas to fly.
While we live in a casual culture in terms of dress code, especially in the USA, I believe that certainly for certain occasions, we should dress a bit more thoughtfully than how you’d dress to go to the grocery store.
Can you wear sneakers to Jury Duty? What about sandals?
Yes, you can wear sneakers as well as sandals for jury duty — again however do not recommend it.
Just imagine, when you’re reporting for jury duty — you literally may have the fate of someone’s life in your hands. If you were in the defendant’s chair (let’s hope you never have to be), wouldn’t you want to see jurors who appear to take their appointed position with some more effort and dignity than if they were going shopping at the mall? Not dressed in jeans, sneakers, or sandals?
With that said, do onto others… your know the rest. Additionally, you’ll be roaming the halls amongst lawyers, judges wearing robes, and formal business attire. Ladies, take the opportunity of serving jury duty to dress up a bit.
At the same time, you definitely want to keep things simple, be authentic, and dress true to your own personal style (just with your best foot forward).
Some other things I would not recommend wearing for jury duty.
- Jeans of any kind.
- Graphic t-shirts with any brands, organizations, logos, or wording of any kind.
- Short dresses or skirts (just above your knees usually appropriate).
- Tight or body con attire (you’re going to the court, not the club).
- Shorts of any length.
- Flip flops, slides, or sandals of any kind.
- Crocs.
- Sneakers.
More tips on what to wear for jury duty.
Plan ahead. You definitely don’t want to find yourself scrambling at the last minute trying to figure out what you will wear for jury duty. Especially if you don’t regularly dress in business or business casual attire, last-minute glitches can leave you feeling rushed and stressed – neither of which you want to feel as you enter the courtroom.
Keep it simple. When you report for jury duty you want to appear diligent and respectful. You can achieve this is with an understated, conservative look. Dress for jury duty in deeper more neutral colors, simple lines (nothing fussy), and a great fit.
Put your best foot forward. Most people in the courthouse will be dressed in business and business casual attire. Additionally, many men and women alike will be in suits. If you don’t want to look and feel like a mere commoner, dress up a bit!
You’ll likely be seated a lot, with some short walks every now and then, so ladies you can totally wear heels and not kill your feet (throw some foldable flats like these or these in your tote bag just in case).
Bring a sweater. The courtroom can get a bit chilly, so bring a jacket or a sweater to keep you warm.
Bombshell tip. Single ladies, as I mentioned before, you’ll be amongst many lawyers, judges, officers, and the like in the halls of the courthouse — throw on a little red lipstick (you never know lol).
Jury Duty Outfit Ideas
A jury for the Florida Circuit civil court, for example, contains 6 or 12 jurors. Here are 12 stylish jurors to help inspire what to wear for your jury duty service.
Stylish Juror #1
I love a monochrome look. And a chic turtleneck is an easy hack any woman can use to look polished and put together. It’s also a good idea to wear a watch for jury duty (that’s not also a phone), as at certain times, you will not be permitted to have your phone with you. That big (and very beautiful) bag is also great to stache some snacks.
Stylish Juror #2
LEather pants for jury duty? Yes, ma’am! This elegant cowl blouse will also keep you warm in the chilly courtroom. And the sensible high-heeled mules… totally here for it.
Stylish Juror #3
A flirty feminine dress is perfect for any occasion. I love this button-down knee-length dress that will cover your cleavage in the courthouse but you can totally undo it when you go for that drink you’ll need when the verdict is in. These ruffled sleeves also cover the shoulders in a very modest way.
Stylish Juror #4
A blazer is perfect to wear for jury duty. Pair with high-waisted pants and sensible heels and you’re ready to deliberate. These neutral colors are also perfect for the courtroom.
Stylish Juror #5
Looking for what to wear for jury duty is the perfect excuse to snag a sharp woman’s suit (if you don’t already have one). This pink one is so feminine, elegant, and oh so chic!
Stylish Juror #6
Pencil skirt for the win! Pair with a ruffled top with muted tones is perfectly pretty and appropriate.
Takeaway on Jury Duty Attire
There you have it, ladies. While jury duty can be a nerve-wracking experience, deciding what to wear for jury duty doesn’t have to be at all. As long as you dress respectably, comfortably, and heck stylishly too… you’ll be in good shape for the courtroom.
